GOVERNOR LINGLE RELEASES $600,000 TO RENOVATE FERNHURST TRANSITIONAL RESIDENCE FOR WOMEN AND CHILDREN
For Immediate Release: March 14, 2005
HONOLULU – Governor Linda Lingle has released funds for a $600,000 capital improvement grant that will enable the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) of O`ahu to complete the renovation of its Fernhurst Transitional Residence for Women and Children in Makiki. The grant will be administered through the Department of Human Services’ Social Services Division.
The remainder of the $3,054,446 project cost will be funded with private contributions and other sources. To date, the YWCA has raised $2,255,586 from a grant from the Harry & Jeanette Weinberg Foundation and through the sale of some of its land. The balance of the funds is anticipated to come from a Community Development Block Grant.
The combined private-public funds will enable the YWCA to complete renovations needed to enhance the housing program. They include expanding the Women’s Resource and Technology Center, where clients utilize computers to get information on employment and permanent housing opportunities; upgrading the kitchen area for a culinary job-training program; adding a private and secure “tot lot” for children; adding handicap accessible rooms and making other alterations to address Americans with Disabilities Act requirements; and upgrading safety, security, plumbing and electrical systems.
“Fernhurst provides an invaluable service to help women and children who are facing difficult and often dangerous circumstances by providing a safe and supportive environment,” said Governor Lingle. “The generosity of the private donors, combined with these state funds, will enable the YWCA to continue to help women overcome hardships and move toward self-sufficiency.”
The Fernhurst Transitional Residence, which was established in 1952, provides drug- and alcohol-free transitional housing and services to women, including, but not limited to those needing financial assistance, fleeing domestic violence or prostitution, recovering from substance abuse and requiring emergency shelter. The women who utilize Fernhurst’s services benefit from a stable living environment, meal services, accommodations for their children, personal development workshops, assistance in obtaining employment and permanent housing, job training and access to other community and support services.
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For more information, contact:
Lenny Klompus
Senior Advisor – Communications
Phone: 586-7708
Russell Pang
Chief of Media Relations
Phone: 586-0043
Lillian Koller
Director, Dept. of Human Services
Phone: 586-4997
